Though it’s the ‘most wonderful time of the year’, many would argue that Christmas is a time of high emotion. In fact, studies have shown that:
- More elderly people are put into care
More elderly people are put into residential care in January, than any other time of year. This is because the pressures of caring for an elderly relative over Christmas can result in the decision to move them to a care home.
Also, with the family together, younger family members are more likely to notice how much support older relatives really need.
- More relationships break down
Divorce rates increase after Christmas and New Year. Tensions are high around the dinner table, and many people reach breaking point during the yearly festivities.
In 2018, 13 people filed for divorce on Christmas Day itself, taking a break from the presents and the turkey for a far more serious matter. Numbers spike annually on New Year’s Day, when people realise that they want to start the year afresh.
Between Christmas Day and New Year 2018-2019, there were more 450 online divorce applications.
- Searches for missing people increase
The empty seat at the dinner table is a stark reminder of a missing family member, as if the rest of the year didn’t already cause grief.
Christmas celebrations can feel empty without a friend or loved one that suddenly disappeared from your life, which is why searches for missing people increase at this time of year.
If you’re missing someone over the festive season, then a private investigator can work hard to find them in 2020. Next year, with the assistance of a Preston private investigator, you could be setting an extra place at the table.
For many people, Christmas is a time to evaluate emotions and take action when you otherwise wouldn’t. Though the statistics sound negative, they’re often a sign that this time of year is a good one to make important changes. This is a time to stop delaying, and doing things you’ve avoided. If someone is missing and you’d love to see them again, call EJM investigations on 01772 334 700.